UP News: The state government has taken strict steps to curb the increasing cases of love jihad and conversion of SC-ST. Along with this, strict provisions have also been made to curb the funding for conversion from abroad. Let us tell you that even mass religious conversion will be punishable with life imprisonment and a fine of one lakh rupees.
Khabar TV (Bureau): The state government has taken strict steps to curb the increasing cases of love jihad and conversion of SC-ST.
The UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, introduced in the Assembly on Monday, increases the punishment period for crimes related to religious conversion. It provides for life imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh. Along with this, strict provisions have also been made to curb funding from abroad for religious conversion.
Let us tell you that through the amendment, the state government has further strengthened the bill brought in the year 2021 in terms of punishment and penalty.
If a minor, disabled or mentally challenged person, woman, SC-ST converts religion, then he can be punished with life imprisonment and a fine of one lakh rupees.
Similarly, mass religious conversion will also be punishable with life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Receiving funding from foreign or illegal organizations will be punishable with up to 14 years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 lakh.
If someone puts a person’s life or property in fear, attacks or uses force, promises to marry, or traffics a minor, woman or person by luring them with the intention of converting, then the punishment will not be less than 20 years. It can be extended to life imprisonment (till death). Apart from this, a fine will also have to be paid for the treatment and rehabilitation of the victim.
Why is the amendment bill necessary?
Actually, this amendment bill has been brought in view of the sensitivity and seriousness of the crime of religious conversion. This will prevent the organized conspiracy of foreign and anti-national forces.
For this reason, along with increasing the amount of punishment and fine, provisions have been made for strict bail conditions. Along with this, minors, handicapped, mentally ill people will also be saved from becoming victims of this crime.